According to Nhat Huy, initially pom poms were simply rolled and tied with woolen threads before being trimmed to shape a fringed cotton ball to decorate hats and shirts. Later the craft was transformed and developed into a popular art form. 

Pets or cartoon characters made of pom poms are beloved as house decorations or gifts.

After graduating from the Architecture University of Ho Chi Minh City, Nhat Huy registered to study abroad to improve his professional knowledge to become a graphic designer. While waiting for the results of studying abroad, the bachelor was attracted by pom pom shapes.

“The cute pet pompoms inspired me to learn how to make them. I looked up how to do it online, then bought books and supplies to try. The first teddy bear pompom, although not very well done, I received many compliments from family and friends. So I had more motivation to create others,” Huy recalls.

At the end of 2016, Nhat Huy went to Canada to study graphic design. While busy studying and working part-time, Huy took the time to learn more about pom poms to satisfy his passion. 

“Since discovering pom poms, I have put down the paintbrush, but whenever I have free time, I pull out my tools to practice," Huy said.

Huy became more passionate about creating wool balls and was able to design his own novel products thanks to his talent as a painter.

After nearly two years of studying abroad, Huy decided to quit the course and returned to Vietnam to pursue the craft of professional pom pom art in Ho Chi Minh City.

“Family and relatives at that time advised me to think carefully. Dropping out of school midway would waste nearly two years of study time and the opportunity to work and settle abroad upon graduation. But I know pom pom art is what I love and do best. Being able to return to my country to live with my passion is something I will never regret," Huy said.

Pom-pom products are very diverse with many themes such as cartoon characters, food, or pets The most prominent is the animal pom pom. Different from the cotton balls on hats, pet pom poms are created by carefully winding and arranging colorful wool fibers to create a vivid array of colors.

“The steps to create a basic pom pom are quite simple. But to create a lively pet requires meticulous and detailed calculations from the first steps and a little ingenuity,” Huy said.

In order for the ears, eyes, and nose to exude the soul of the animal, the pompom maker, in addition to knowing how to use accessories, must understand the basics of animal anatomy. Before starting work, Huy studies carefully the characteristics of the specimen he intends to make. Next, he will sketch and make a diagram to arrange the layers of wool and then wrap the yarn on the pom pom.

Each pom pom mold is 2-11.5cm and is used to create different sized wool balls, depending on the specimen.

Making pom poms is not difficult but requires meticulousness and good observation.

Returning to Vietnam in 2018, Huy was surprised that few people in the country knew about this creative art. He was determined to become a professional and introduce pom pom craft to the community.

Huy is willing to share how to make pet and cartoon characters on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and other sites so those who are passionate about Pom Poms can easily follow. 

Huy's first book on pom poms has been jointly published by a British publisher.

Lam Giang